Jack Studnicka Scouting Report: 2017 NHL Draft #75

ST CATHARINES, ON - OCTOBER 15: Jack Studnicka #23 of the Oshawa Generals skates during an OHL game against the Niagara IceDogs at the Meridian Centre on October 15, 2016 in St Catharines, Canada. (Photo by Vaughn Ridley/Getty Images)

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The 21st overall pick in the 2015 OHL Draft, Jack Studnicka, had a solid season with the Oshawa Generals. Taking on a bigger role after Anthony Cirelli was traded to the Erie Otters, Studnicka excelled. He scored 18 goals and 52 points in 64 games during the regular season. He had 23 points in his final 20 games. Studnicka’s performance was a big reason why the Generals still finished third in the conference despite unloading key vets like Cirelli, Mitchell van de Somple, Stephen Templeton, and Daniel Robertson. However, Studnicka was even better in the playoffs. He put up five goals and 15 points in 11 games. Unfortunately, the Generals fell in the second round to the Mississauga Steelheads.

Studnicka represented Canada at the IIHF Under 18 World Championships, scoring three goals in three games. He also played for Canada at last summer’s Ivan Hlinka Tournament. In 2015-16, Studnicka put up five points in six games for Team Canada Red at the 2015-16 Under 17 World Hockey Challenge.

The younger brother of former OHLer, and former Sarnia Sting captain, Sam Studnicka. He comes from a good hockey family.

Jack Studnicka Scouting Report: 2017 NHL Draft #75

Skating

Studnicka has taken some big steps in improving his skating over this past year, but can still get even a little better. He has very good top end speed. There are some issues in his first step though, and he needs to continue to work on his acceleration. Studnicka is better at getting in quickly on a forecheck, or on using his speed off the rush, then he is at tracking down loose pucks or making short bursts in the offensive and defensive zone. He has good agility and edgework, as well as the power to fight through checks and get to the net.

Offensive Game

Jack Studnicka is a very smart player. He is a strong play maker. Studnicka has excellent vision, and is able to make tough passes to teammates. He moves the puck smartly, putting it in good spaces where a linemate can race onto it, if he doesn’t have another play. He is a decent stick handler who protects the puck well down low, and in the cycle game.

Studnicka can also score goals. He has a good wrist shot, with power and accuracy. He could stand to work on his release though. Studnicka can stand to use his shot more often though. He gets himself open for shots by finding soft spots in the defence, and finishing passes from teammates.

Studnicka is willing to get to the net and battle in the corners. He is not afraid to play in the dirty areas of the ice or to take a hit to make a play. However, Studnicka needs to bulk up to continue to play this game at the pro level.

Defensive Game

Studnicka has a well developed defensive game. He kills penalties, anticipating plays and cutting down passing lanes. He has a strong positional game and is not afraid to block shots. Studnicka shows his grit in all three zones, battling for position and loose pucks. He is also very good in the face-off circle.

Projection and Comparison

Jack Studnicka could develop into a two-way centre at the NHL level. There is some question about his ultimate offensive upside, but he could become a second liner with ideal development. A solid third line centre seems to be more likely though. Studnicka’s game is reminiscent of Matt Cullen of the Pittsburgh Penguins. This is a stylistic comparison though, and not one based on talent.